Northport Presents Fascinating, First Rate Veterans Day Commemoration!

It is with distinct pleasure and pride that Northport K-8 School commemorate Veterans Day with a flourish. The morning of November 10 started with the Pledge of Allegiance and the Kids at Hope Pledge. Students then recited the “Northport American Children’s Pledge.” The media center filled up quickly with at least fifteen local veterans from all different branches of the military and students from the 6, 7 and 8 grade Northstars and the grades 7 and 8 Stingrays teams. Students from the Northport Choir under the direction of Thomas Conner sang the National Anthem with thrilling tones that had the entire audience humming and singing too. Second graders from Mrs. Ploeckelman, Mrs. Calo, Ms. Schrader and Mrs. Lamm’s classes wrote moving tributes to our veterans and read their essays directly to the vets. The children were inspiring and the older students were moved by the clear display of Americanism. A brief history of Veterans Day was given by Media Specialist Lynne Gruszka and students were given a wonderful welcome by Northport Principal Glenn Rustay. Veterans introduced themselves and gave a brief synopsis of their branch and career. Students then, using Northport Leadership Summit format, directed a Question and Answer session. Students stood, introduced themselves, loudly and clearly asked their question and then remained standing until their question was answered. Also, in partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters and Americorp, each veteran was pinned with a special “Partnership” pin from AmeriCorps and Northport K-8 School. The program was all encompassing and praiseworthy as students learned all about World War I, Armistice Day and why we commemorate the 11th minute, the 11th hour, the 11th day on the 11th month as Veterans Day. Special thanks to local Veteran Partners in Education who helped educate well over 200 students about the importance of education, civic responsibility and Americanism.